Vietnam: Leaked Communist Party document warns of 'hostile forces' - BBC News

The Communist Party document reveals leaders' fear of losing control, says the BBC's Jonathan Head.

1 day agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, US President Joe Biden visited Hanoi in September last yearBy Jonathan HeadBBC NewsIf countries can be said to go in and out of fashion, then Vietnam is certainly having its moment in the spotlight.

Once better known for sitting quietly in the strategic shadows, its leaders almost unknown to the rest of the world, Vietnam is now being courted by everyone.

US President Joe Biden and and Chinese leader Xi Jinping both visited last year. The US saw its relationship with Vietnam elevated to the highest level possible, that of a "comprehensive strategic partnership".

Vietnam has agreed to 18 existing or planned free trade arrangements. Its collaboration is being sought on climate change, supply chain resilience, pandemic preparedness and a host of other issues.

It is viewed as a vital regional player in the growing US-China rivalry; in the South China Sea, where it contests China's claim to some island groups; and as the best alternative to China for outsourcing manufacturing.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-68443392

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